Buri victims receive cash aid from Capitol

CEBU, Philippines - The Capitol has released Wednesday the financial assistance for the family of the victims of the June 13 incident when a five-ton buri palm tree fell on small houses in Barangay Labogon, Mandaue City.

Rod Walter Dimpas, 18, received P10,000 while Heidi Gerodias received P5,000 cash aid.

Dimpas lost his parents, Romeo and Teresa, when sudden rains and strong winds toppled the 15-meter long buri palm.

With her two-year old son, Gerodias on the other hand, lost her husband Richard due to the incident.

It has been a policy of the Province of Cebu through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office to extend financial assistance to the family in the amount of P5,000 each victim.

Dimpas was reportedly at their living room making his project when the tree suddenly fell on his parent’s room.

He is the couple’s only son and is now staying with his aunt.

“Ako na lang gihinay-hinay og dawat unya gi-focus na lang nako ako attention sa ako pag eskwela,” added Dimpas.

The fallen buri palm or locally known as buli also affected Gerodias’ hut. Luckily, Heidi and her son only sustained minor injuries.

Although she is thankful for the help extended by the Capitol, Heidi is still saddened by the incident which happened on the day of their supposed 4th wedding anniversary.

She said the financial aid is a big help especially with her child’s needs and their house rental. The victims’ houses were made of light housing materials. (FREEMAN)